Become a "Ramsar Wetland City"

15. April 2026

The Wetland City accreditation process for cities from Germany

Wetlands are indispensable for modern cities. Whether moors, floodplains or lakes – they are valuable habitats and essential building blocks for climate protection and climate adaptation. The global accreditation program “Ramsar Wetland City” now offers German cities the opportunity to make their commitment to urban wetlands internationally visible.

The “Ramsar Wetland City” award was adopted in 2015 as part of the 12th Conference of the Parties (COP12) to the Convention on Wetlands on Wetlands. It is a voluntary program of the contracting parties (states) and offers cities the opportunity to strategically present, strengthen and continuously develop their activities for the protection of urban wetlands. The accreditation of cities by an independent decision-making committee (International Accreditation Committee, IAC) is valid for two COP cycles (six years in total). Cities can extend the accreditation after this period has expired.

Why apply as a city for Wetland City accreditation?

Improved reputation and sharpened profile of the city on this topic.

Exchange with other cities within a global community and international recognition.

Increasing the well-being of all citizens through possible additional measures to optimize the microclimate, local recreation areas and water quality.

Increased commitment of the city to sustainability and resilience and thus a strong position to meet the challenges of climate change.

Possible access to new funding opportunities for the protection of valuable habitats and sustainable management of wetlands.

Requirements for participation
Cities must clearly demonstrate that they are actively protecting and restoring wetlands and raising public awareness of their value. The process begins with a decision by the municipal council or city administration and the formation of an interdisciplinary working group – a Teams that pool expertise and represent different perspectives (z. e.g. from the fields of environment, urban planning and tourism).

The application and accreditation documents completed by the city are submitted by the national contact point(Federal Agency for Nature Conservation) to the decision-making committee of the International Wetlands Convention (IAC).

Your path to accreditation: Timeline 2026-2028
The application process is closely linked to the international conferences of the Ramsar states:

March/April 2026: Official call for applications by the Ramsar Secretariat.
Until December 31, 2026: Completion of the documents in coordination with the national contact point (Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, BfN) and submission to the BfN.
2027 – first half of 2028: Review by the International Advisory Committee (IAC) and VPublication of the list of newly accredited cities
June 2028: Ceremony honoring the newly accredited cities at the World Conference (COP16) in Panama.

Would your city like to become a pioneer in wetland protection?
Do you have any questions about the procedure or the criteria? We will be happy to advise you and support you in the accreditation process.
Contact: Katja Weickmann (see contact details on the right)

WFurther information: How to become a Wetland City?

Flyer “Cities and wetlands: Together for Nature and People” with information on the accreditation process “Wetland City 2026 – 2028” – to be downloaded here shortly
Accredited Wetland Cities (as of 2026). Currently 72 cities worldwide are accredited. Wetland City Accreditation | The Convention on Wetlands
Operational guidelines for certification as a “Wetland City”: https://www.ramsar.org/document/operational-guidance-wetland-city-accreditation-ramsar-convention-wetlands
Guidance for cities: wca_guidance_for_cities_e.pdf
Download the nomination form as a Word file HERE